The holidays are traditionally a time to celebrate and reunite with family and friends. The bright lights, sparkly décor and sounds of the season seem to make everything magical. But if a loved one is dealing with a cancer diagnosis, she may not feel holiday cheer. If someone close to you has cancer or another serious illness, here are some ways to help lift their holiday spirits:

1. Decorate outside. Hang a wreath, string some lights or set up a festive spotlight.
2. Help with shopping. Reduce the burden of running from store to store.
3. Give gift cards for groceries. Money is always tight around the holidays, so help out as you can.
4. Arrange a meal delivery. Something healthy, hearty and warm!
5. Take out the trash. Bring the trash and recycling bins out to the curb on the appropriate night and retrieve them in the morning.
6. Show up with a vacuum and supplies. Offer to clean and tidy up their home.
7. Wrap the presents. This task can be tiring for anyone, especially for someone undergoing cancer treatments. Don’t forget the bows!
8. Take their kids for an outing. Make it somewhere loud, crazy and fun that the kids will love, but is perhaps too trying for a parent who doesn’t feel well.
9. Be a handyman. Help with the to-do lists and do minor tasks around their house.
10. After-holiday cleanup. Set up a date to take down decorations and store them for next year.